Navigating Commercial Roofs: Understanding Fiberglass Skylight Hazards
Navigating commercial roofs involves awareness and understanding of potential hazards. Old fiberglass skylights, commonly found on some metal building roofs, pose risks due to their composition. Despite their durability, it’s crucial to acknowledge their load-bearing limitations. Designed to seamlessly integrate with roofing profiles, these skylights lack the structural robustness to support a person’s weight, increasing fall risks.
Recent roof assessments reveal a concerning trend – skylights coated during roof maintenance. The coating process can inadvertently conceal skylights, making them visually indistinguishable from conventional roof patches.
Technical Recommendations:
· In-Depth Roof Inspections: Prioritize inspections considering the skylight construction within the specific roofing framework.
· Training Programs: Implement training programs for on-site teams to ensure their understanding of skylight materials, load capacities, and the impact of coatings.
Essential Safety Measures:
1. Footwear: Invest in appropriate non-slip footwear to enhance traction.
2. Fall Protection Equipment: Ensure on-site teams are equipped with industry-standard fall protection gear, including harnesses and lifelines.
3. Team Communication: Foster open communication to share observations and concerns.
4. Proper Training: Enroll in comprehensive training programs on commercial roof safety protocols and hazard identification.
5. Regular Inspections: Schedule routine roof inspections to identify and address potential hazards promptly.
6. Emergency Procedures: Establish clear emergency procedures, including evacuation routes and communication plans.
At Pat Munger Construction Company, Inc., our focus is on the well-being of everyone navigating commercial roofs. By combining technical know-how with essential measures, we strive to ensure that everyone stepping foot on roofs can do so confidently and securely.
Source: James DeMaio, Vice President of Business Operations at Pat Munger Construction Company, Inc.